Oriana Suarez January 1, 2025
Buyers
Waiting for perfect market conditions often means missing out. Because what you may not realize is, if you’re ready and able to buy, this time of year could actually give you an edge. Here’s why. As the weather cools down, the housing market can too – and that works in your favor.
Homes tend to take a little longer to sell during this time of year. Data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows the average time a house sits on the market jumps up during the winter months (see the green bars in the graph below):
This is partly because fewer buyers are active at this time of year – and that decrease in buyer competition means the houses that are on the market aren’t going to be snatched up as quickly. So, if you decide to buy a home in the next couple of months, you’ll likely have more time to consider your options and negotiate a deal without feeling as pressured.
And since homes generally take longer to sell during the winter, sellers are often more motivated to close a deal. That can work in your favor, too. According to NAR:
“Less competition can lead to better deals. While homes are not selling as fast as during the summer, sellers may be more willing to negotiate.”
Whether it’s compromising on price, covering closing costs or repairs, or including extras like appliances, you have more room to ask for what you need.
With less competition from other buyers and sellers who are more willing to negotiate, you may see slightly lower prices too. In fact, according to NAR, homes are typically about 5% less expensive now compared to when prices normally peak in the summer.
That might not seem like a huge difference, but on a $400,000 home, it could mean savings of $20,000 on the purchase price.
You can see this expected seasonal shift in home prices taking place this year. Take a look at the graph below showing the median sales price of existing homes (homes that were previously owned) over the past 12 months. You’ll notice in the green bars that prices were lower in the winter months last year, and it seems like that’s going to happen again this year. That gives you the chance to make your budget go further:
Buying a home during the winter means less competition, motivated sellers, and potentially lower prices, too. Let’s work together to find the right one at the right price for you.
Stay up to date on the latest real estate trends.
Sellers
July 8, 2025
Selling your home in Union County? Get expert pricing strategies, neighborhood insights, and a free CMA from Florostone Realty—your trusted local real estate team.
Buyers
July 1, 2025
What today's market conditions, pricing trends, and buyer demand mean for Union County homeowners looking to sell.
Buyers
June 24, 2025
2025 Home Affordability Guide Across Union, Middlesex, Essex, and Bergen Counties
Tips
June 18, 2025
Featuring Union, Middlesex, Essex & Bergen Counties
Sellers
June 11, 2025
Your step-by-step guide to selling a home in Union County, NJ—covering pricing, preparation, marketing, and closing in today’s 2025 real estate market.
Buyers
June 4, 2025
Why Roselle Park Is a Great Choice for First-Time Buyers
Buyers
May 21, 2025
Explore the top neighborhoods and housing markets in Union, Middlesex, Essex, and Bergen Counties with insights from the experts at Florostone Realty.
Sellers
May 13, 2025
Florostone Realty's Proven Strategies for Maximizing Home Sales in New Jersey's Competitive Markets
Tips
May 7, 2025
Expert Tips to Sell Fast and Maximize Value in 2025
We strive to become your go-to Real Estate Advisors. Book a free consultation today and let’s get started with a buying or selling plan for your home customized to your unique timeline.